Vitamin-K Deficiency

Vitamin-K deficiency causes deficiency of vitamin-K-dependent clotting factors (II, VII, IX, X), with elevated PT/INR and bleeding. In newborns it causes hemorrhagic disease of the newborn (classically GI/cutaneous/intracranial bleeding at 2-7 days or late). In adults it occurs in fat malabsorption, biliary obstruction, prolonged antibiotics, and warfarin therapy. Treatment: parenteral vitamin-K; fresh-frozen plasma for active bleeding.

Common Symptoms

Bleeding/bruising; melena; umbilical/cutaneous bleeding (neonate); elevated PT/INR; intracranial hemorrhage (neonate)

Causes and Pathogenesis

Vitamin-K is required for gamma-carboxylation of clotting factors; deficiency/malabsorption or antagonists (warfarin) cause functional factor deficiency.

Treatment

Parenteral vitamin-K; FFP/PCC for active bleeding; newborn vitamin-K prophylaxis; treat underlying malabsorption

Preventive Measures

Newborn vitamin-K injection; monitor INR on warfarin; supplement malabsorption patients.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Hematology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.